ISNA Condemns the Attack in Nice and is Alarmed by the Divisive Rhetoric by Elected Officials

July 15, 2016

(Plainfield, IN 7/15/16) – The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) strongly condemns the attack in Nice, France. We have always and continue to reject all forms of terrorism and violence. We send condolences to the victims and their families of the recent attack in Nice, France.

We are alarmed and outraged by the fear led response of several elected officials. Rhetoric such as “we should frankly test every person here who is of a Muslim background, and if they believe in Sharia, they should be deported” and claiming Western civilization is in a war with Islam is divisive and advocates further violence. This sort of fear-mongering creates a dangerous environment for American Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim.

In a statement, ISNA President Azhar Azeez said: “We are extremely concerned by the divisive rhetoric in response to the Nice attacks. This rhetoric feeds into the narrative of extremist groups like Daesh. In these times of difficulties, we must come together as one family.”

ISNA encourages all its members to respond to the recent string of attacks and the anti-Muslim rhetoric by registering to vote and engaging with their communities civically through service and advocacy projects that will benefit the whole community.

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) is the largest and oldest Islamic umbrella organization in North America. Its mission is to foster the development of the Muslim community, interfaith relations, civic engagement, and better understanding of Islam.